LOST YA: Arsene Wenger has revealed Arsenal failed in their attempts to sign Yaya Toure

ARSENAL boss Arsene Wenger has admitted failing to sign Manchester City midfield powerhouse Yaya Toure is one of his biggest regrets.

The Gunners agreed a deal to sign Toure, who at the time was plying his trade with Belgian side Beveren, in 2003 after he impressed on trial.

However following a delay in gaining a work permit for a move to join his brother Kolo at the Gunners, the Ivory Coast international opted for Ukrainian outfit Metalurh Donetsk.

Toure has since established himself as one of the finest midfielders in the game during his time with Spanish giants Barcelona and now City.
STAR: Toure has establish himself as one of the finest midfielders in the game [GETTY]
“We waited for his passport in Belgium but he went to Ukraine ”
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger
When asked where he puts his failure to sign Toure in his list of regrets, Wenger simply responded: "At the top."

The Frenchman added: "But let's not forget Toure had an agreement with Arsenal. We waited for his passport in Belgium but he went to Ukraine [instead].

"He's not a mistake but he preferred to go to Donetsk without a passport."

Toure is expected to start against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium tomorrow evening as City aim to close the gap on Premier League leaders Chelsea.